They are massively improved from the 2019 originals. The earbuds are much smaller and comfier; they have solid noise canceling and transparency modes, plus built-in heart rate sensors, so you can record heart rate data without a smartwatch or fitness tracker. They’re also great on both iPhones and Android phones: Apple’s H2 chip adds Find My support, Siri voice assistant, and iCloud device switching, while Android users get a dedicated Beats app and easy one-touch pairing.

My main gripe with them is that they are only IPX4 dust- and water-resistant, which is particularly baffling for workout headphones (even the all-purpose AirPods Pro 3 are IP57). They’re also still a bit big, but that’s necessary for such a secure ear-hook design. If you want a more streamlined workout earbud, I also love the smaller Beats Powerbeats Fit, though they don’t have a built-in heart rate sensor.

I test new earbuds every month. These models made an impression but didn’t quite make it into my top picks.

Apple AirPods 5 With Wireless Charging Case for $149: If you are dead set on Apple earbuds, but don’t love the feeling of silicone in your ear, Apple AirPods 5 are your best bet. They have a semi-open-ear fit (no eartips!) that doesn’t block out noise like AirPods Pro 3 do. And the ANC, while not as good as the Pro 3’s, is excellent for an open-ear design and a huge improvement over AirPods 4. Still, I prefer AirPods Pro 3 for most occasions, and they do go on sale often, if price is a deciding factor.

Sony WH-1000XM6 for $330: If you want premium design and excellent sound quality, these latest flagship earbuds from Sony fit the bill. With excellent ANC and transparency modes, plus a truly detailed sound profile, they scored a 9/10 in our Sony WH-1000XM6 review. What kept them out of the top spot is fit and price. I couldn’t find the right foam earbud to fit comfortably in my ear, no matter what sizes I used. (This rarely, if ever, happens when I test earbuds.) They’re also $330—that’s a high price, especially when so many competitors offer a similarly great experience for less.

Nothing Ear (3a) for $99: These stylish little earbuds stand out from the crowd with a bold design and a sub-$100 price. Even at this price, they don’t really leave anything out. They pair easily with iPhone and Android devices; have a fully fledged app with features like a customizable EQ, call recording, and audio transcriptions; and sound great. ANC could be better, but again, at this price, it’s hard to complain. You can learn more in our Nothing Ear (3a) review.

Soundcore Liberty 5 for $130: I prefer stem-shaped earbuds, and these from Soundcore are excellent for the price, though they’re a bit outgunned by the Liberty 5 Pro. They fit comfortably and deliver above-average sound quality and noise-canceling. But they don’t have the outstanding call quality of the Pro version (it’s still good, just not as good). Their saving grace compared to their bigger brother is size—these are much smaller, lighter earbuds you may find more comfortable.